Nursing clip

ABSTRACT

A spring metal fastener comprised of a three-tab construction with the two external tabs riveted together to force a slight curvature. This is applied to the strap of an undergarment used with the intention of reminding a woman on which side to position a baby for the next feeding. This fastener opens on one side with the use of a single hand by reversing the slight curvature with the appropriate pressure. Conversely to close the fastener, reciprocal force is applied to secure the fastener around the strap.

CROSS REFERENCE

Provisional Application 60/643,772 with filing date Jan. 14, 2005

The background of the Nursing Clip invention came to light out of necessity when struggling to remember which breast to initially use to nurse my son based on the recommended rotating schedule by the American Pediatrics Association. Knowing a safety pin could serve the same purpose of noting which side to nurse, I knew there could be an even easier way of taking out the guesswork while not piercing my clothing. In summary, the Nursing clip is a convenient and easily accessible way to remind a woman of which side to position the baby for the next feeding on.

FIG. 1 shows a plan view of the Nursing Clip.

FIG. 2 shows a side view of the Nursing Clip in the closed position while

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the Nursing Clip in the open position.

FIG. 4 reflects the template for fabrication of the Nursing Clip.

The Nursing Clip is measured approximately 5 cm by 5 cm and is approximately 0.5 mm thick (prior to covering) and is made of a spring metal (or any other manufactured material with similar properties) covered with fabric, or other suitable covering. While closed (see FIG. 2), the Nursing Clip holds a slight curvature. With slight pressure from a single hand, the outside frame pops upwards, allowing one end of the clip to open (see FIG. 3). From the open position, a woman would slide the open side of the clip onto the front of any bra strap or shirt sleeve and close the clip to a secure position by applying reciprocal force.

The Nursing Clip holds 3 independent claims: it opens and closes with a single hand; the construction of stainless steel frame lends durability while its covering gives comfort to the mother when in use; and it is large enough not to pose a choking hazard to young children.

The manner of fabrication would be as follows. Using the template as shown in FIG. 4, the frame of the clip is cut during a metal stamping process. With the application of an adhesive, fabric is then secured to the metal to fully encase the frame. The final step in manufacturing is to bring the tips of both outside tabs together above the middle tab and to secure the connection with a rivit. An inverted V shaped crimp is also placed in the middle tab (see FIG. 3) to add extra stability to the Nursing Clip. 

1. The nursing clip holds 3 independent claims: it signifies which side of the body to: position the baby for a feeding; it opens and closes with a single hand; and it is large enough not to pose a choking hazard to young children. 